Sightseeing Cruise from the Old City in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and looking for the best way to explore the city from the sea? Well, look no further! Taking a sightseeing cruise from the Old City in Istanbul is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the city’s remarkable majesty and stunning beauty. Not only will you have a fantastic view of the city and some stunning photo opportunities but also, you’ll get a chance to learn about Istanbul’s rich history and culture. So, if you’re looking for a great experience, then book a boat tour of Istanbul’s Old City. Here’s a comprehensive guide about this activity so you can plan your trip accordingly.

About Istanbul City Sightseeing Cruise

Experience the magic of this vibrant city from the sea as you cruise down its coast while taking in its wonderful sights and sounds. A city sightseeing cruise of Istanbul is a tour of the old city and its surroundings. The cruise typically lasts for an hour to two hours and most boat tours include plenty of fascinating stops along the way.

During your boat tour in Istanbul, you’ll have an opportunity to explore some of the most popular sights and historical places of the city such as Sultanahmet Square, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, and many more. The cruise usually starts from Sultanahmet Square and then moves towards the waterfront of Eminönü. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of Galata Bridge, Leander’s Tower near Kadiköy on the Asian side of the Bosphorus and many other splendid attractions.

Things to Do During Your Sightseeing Cruise

Your sightseeing cruise from the Old City in Istanbul will also take you past some of the most edifying places in the city such as:

• Sultanahmet Square – is home to some of Istanbul’s iconic and significant landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
• Galata Tower – This historical landmark located in Beyoglu stands at an astonishing 66 meters high and offers spectacular views of Istanbul’s skyline.
• The Spice Bazaar – An amazing 17th-century covered bazaar located near Eminönü, home to a variety of shops selling a wide array of spices, herbs, nuts and Turkish delicacies
• Kiz Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower) – This 96-feet high tower has served as a lighthouse, watchtower and a fort for many centuries.
• Rumeli Fortress – Built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed, this historical site was built with one purpose – to prepare for the siege of Constantinople.

You can also enjoy great views of Istanbul from your boat as you enjoy drinks, snacks, and traditional entertainment such as belly dance shows during your cruise.

How to Book a Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise From the Old City in Istanbul

Booking a sightseeing cruise from the old city in Istanbul is quite easy. There are plenty of boat tour packages available from various sources. However, Tour from Istanbul recommends booking your tour from GetYourGuide.com, which is one of the most reliable travel websites on the web. From their website, you can book a wide range of packages at competitive rates including standard, express, and private tours.

For example, their standard package includes a two-hour tour in an open-air wooden motorboat with commentary throughout the tour in 11 different languages. While their express and private packages may include additional amenities like transportation from your hotel, drinks & refreshments, platter breakfast and many other perks which can be customized according to your needs & budget.

Tips for Travellers

While taking a sightseeing cruise from the old city in Istanbul is one of the best things to do during your visit, here are a few tips that can help you make your experience more enjoyable:

• Make sure to book your tour package well in advance so you can avoid high peak season prices.
• Choose a package that best suits your needs whether it is just a normal tour without any extra amenities or an upgrade package with refreshments & transportation etc.
• Wear comfortable clothes as you may be spending many hours on your boat during the tour.
• Bring along sun protection such as sunscreen or sunglasses to make your cruise more enjoyable.
• Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some amazing moments during your sightseeing cruise.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide on taking a sightseeing cruise from the Old City in Istanbul. We hope our guide helped you plan your perfect outing and feel confident to book your trip. So don’t hesitate any longer and book your trip now with GetYourGuide. Enjoy your amazing cruise!